Office 2024 Launch and Features
On September 16, Microsoft officially announced the general release of Office 2024, marking the latest iteration of its perpetual Office suite. Initially, this version will cater primarily to commercial and government clients, with plans to extend availability to consumers in the near future.
Office 2024 is designed for users who prefer not to rely on an internet connection to access Office features. It appeals to those who appreciate a stable version of Office that does not receive frequent updates. Microsoft is eager for its customers to experience Office 2024 and has provided additional insights into its offerings.
According to Microsoft, Office LTSC 2024 will be supported for a duration of five years, adhering to the company’s established “Fixed Lifecycle Policy.” The support period is scheduled to commence on September 18, 2024, and conclude on October 9, 2029.
Comparing Microsoft 365 Apps and Office LTSC 2024
- Apps included: Both versions include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, OneDrive, and Access (Windows only). However, Office LTSC 2024 also includes Publisher (Windows only), Sway, and Forms.
- Desktop apps: Microsoft 365 offers premium apps installed on up to 5 PCs or Macs, while Office LTSC 2024 provides classic apps installed on 1 PC or Mac.
- Mobile apps: Microsoft 365 allows usage on up to 5 phones and 5 tablets, whereas Office LTSC 2024 does not offer mobile apps.
- Web apps: Microsoft 365 enables online file creation and editing, which is not available in Office LTSC 2024.
- Eligible for Microsoft 365 Copilot: Yes for Microsoft 365, no for Office LTSC 2024.
- Cloud storage: Microsoft 365 provides 1 TB of storage per user; Office LTSC 2024 does not offer cloud storage.
- Feature updates: Microsoft 365 receives new features and security updates often, while Office LTSC 2024 only gets security updates.
- Shared devices: Microsoft 365 supports sharing licenses on shared computers or devices; Office LTSC 2024 can only use device-based licensing.
- Internet needed: Microsoft 365 requires internet for setup, activation, and some features but can work offline for up to 6 months. Office LTSC 2024 doesn’t need internet.
This one-time purchase grants users a “locked-in” version of essential Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, while also incorporating select features from the Microsoft 365 suite. Notably, Excel will now support dynamic charts and various array functions that were previously exclusive to Microsoft 365 subscribers. Outlook will benefit from enhanced search capabilities, allowing users to create more meetings efficiently.
However, it is important to note that Office 2024 does not support ActiveX Controls, which may necessitate continued use of older Office versions for those who rely on this functionality.
For users still operating on Office 2016 or 2019, Microsoft is encouraging a transition to Microsoft 365 before the deadline of October 14, 2025. For those unable to make the switch, Office 2024 remains an option for purchase.
While Microsoft has confirmed that Office LTSC 2024 will be supported until October 9, 2029, this timeline suggests that another perpetual release may be introduced prior to that date. As the company continues to steer its focus towards Microsoft 365 as the future of productivity software, it remains mindful of its customer base that prefers the traditional one-time payment model for Office on Windows 11 or Windows 10.
